Hysterectomy - When to Call a Doctor

SYMPTOMS & TREATMENTS

After a hysterectomy, call your doctor or go to the emergency room if:

  • You have bright red vaginal bleeding that soaks one or more pads in an hour, or you have large clots.
  • You have foul-smelling discharge from your vagina.
  • You are sick to your stomach or cannot keep fluids down.
  • You have signs of infection, such as:
    • Increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness.
    • Red streaks leading from the incision.
    • Pus draining from the incision.
    • Swollen lymph nodes in your neck, armpits, or groin.
    • A fever.
  • You have pain that does not get better after you take pain medicine.
  • You have loose stitches, or your incision comes open.
  • You have signs of a blood clot, such as:
    • Pain in your calf, back of knee, thigh, or groin.
    • Redness and swelling in your leg or groin.
  • You have trouble passing urine or stool, especially if you have pain or swelling in your lower belly.
  • You have hot flashes, sweating, flushing, or a fast or pounding heartbeat.

Your doctor will give you specific instructions after your hysterectomy. Be sure to follow them. Usually, getting some rest and following those instructions will help postoperative problems diminish over time.

By: Healthwise StaffLast Revised: July 15, 2010
Medical Review: Sarah Anne Marshall, MD - Family Medicine
Kirtly Jones, MD - Obstetrics and Gynecology

© 1995-2011 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated. This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.

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